Defense Secretary James N. Mattis concluded a five-day trip to reaffirm enduring U.S. commitments to partnerships in the Middle East, West Africa and South Asia. In Egypt, Mattis met with that country's leaders before heading to Jordan to attend a meeting on countering violent extremism. He then visited Pakistan and Kuwait for meetings with government and military leaders.

Promotion Ceremony - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis promotes a Marine to the rank of staff sergeant after arriving at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Dec. 4, 2017. DoD photo by Army Sgt. Amber I. Smith | Flickr Album

Says The relationship forged between the United States and Kuwait during the war for Kuwait’s liberation in 1991 continues to grow, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis told reporters traveling with him.Story

Speaking with Pakistani leaders in Islamabad, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis recognized Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war on terrorism and emphasized the vital role the nation can play in helping to facilitate a peace process in Afghanistan. Story

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James N. Mattis became the 26th defense secretary Jan. 20, 2017. During more than four decades in uniform, he commanded Marines at all levels, including in combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a joint force commander, he commanded U.S. Joint Forces Command, NATO's Supreme Allied Command for Transformation and U.S. Central Command.